The Path to Teaching_ Part 3

the path into the teaching profession is the dreaded interview.  Let me start by saying if you made it to an interview, congratulations!  Teaching is a very competitive field and although your interview is a huge step, don’t be scared of it.  This is your chance to verbally express all of those vital skills you put on paper in your resume.  Here are a few of my suggestions to prepare yourself for the interview and how you should proceed.
                First, you only get one shot to make a first impression.  (Your resume helped make a great impression but use the interview to knock it out of the park.)  Show up early if you can!  I remember an interview I had where the school was out of session and all but the side door near the principal was locked.  I didn’t know that and spent a good few minutes trying to get someone to answer a phone or door at the school.  Although the principal completely understood, I don’t think my excuses for being late helped my chances.  I also suggest looking your best and wear a suit.  Dress for the job you want.  Dressing nice and a little extra cologne always boosts my confidence.  Plus, when you don’t have to worry about how you look, you can focus at the task at hand!
                Second, be confident!  Shake hands and great EVERYONE interviewing you, not just the principal.  Make a note of everyone’s name and title so you can make your follow up thank you calls or send follow up emails.  From the first chance you get, look people in the eye.  There is something about the human brain that tells us we can trust people who look us in the eye.
                Third I suggest using your portfolio as an informal outline and for notes on what you want to say.  In the interview, the principal or person interviewing you will most likely lead your conversation.  But there are multiple times when you should be able to speak to your experience in what the interviewer in talking about.  With your organized portfolio, you can quickly substantiate what you are saying.  For example, if the interviewer asks you how you deal with parent communications, you can turn and show a sample of your communication log from student teaching.  Also, at the end of the interview, the principal always asks you if you have any questions or anything to add.  Rather than just rambling off insignificant statements, you can reference your portfolio for any important information that the conversation did not cover.
                My fourth suggestion is to thank EVERYONE interviewing you for their time and consideration.  Be sure to tell them how excited you are and show your interest in the advertised position.  Although some people do, I do not think it is appropriate to talk salary or negotiate anything at this point.  I always wait until an offer has been made to me just to be safe and not rush or offend anyone.
                Ok so those are some suggestions on nailing your interview.  Hopefully your interview will go great and you will continue down the path to a job!  Remember to send a thank you note to ALL involved in the interview within 24 hours.  If you can, make this hand written but an email is just as good.  Something is better than nothing to keep you fresh in the minds of the hiring people.  Also, keep in mind that your interview and questions you ask is a great opportunity to show your commitment and can be a great researching chance to ask questions about the school/ district you are getting into.